Effects of a Combination of Stances and Points of Aim on Putting Accuracy

The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of two putting stances (conventional versus side-saddle) and two points of aim (ball versus hole) on putting accuracy. Subjects (12 men, 4 women) were taught to putt using four methods: (a) conventional stance, eyes on the ball; (b) conventional stance, eyes on the hole; (c) side-saddle stance, eyes on the ball; and (d) side-saddle stance, eyes on the hole. Each subject practiced each method for 2 wk., after which they were tested for purring accuracy by counting putts made, determining constant error, and by calculating variable error. Accuracy was assessed at 5 and 15 ft. A 2 by 2 repeated-measures analysis of variance showed that there was no single combination of stance and point of aim that was significantly better than another at either distance. This suggests that, contrary to popular opinion, the traditional method of putting is not the best method for putting; other methods are equally as good and could be used if individually desired.